From Marketing Apprentice to a UX Degree with a Leading Innovator in Road Safety

Starting your career can be both challenging and exhilarating. My journey began with a Level 4 Marketing Apprenticeship at Kaplan, which provided a springboard to a Level 6 UX Degree Apprenticeship with National Highways. In this blog, I’ll share my journey, the obstacles I faced, and the lessons I learned along the way.  For those still in school, college, university, or searching for their first job or apprenticeship, I hope my experience offers some valuable insights and inspiration.

My Journey

1. Finding the Right Path

Although I had initially planned to pursue a degree, I decided against diving straight into higher education after taking a gap year. I wanted to avoid overwhelming myself, so starting with a Level 4 apprenticeship provided a more gradual introduction to an educational environment. This approach allowed me to gain valuable experience and skills before deciding whether to apply for university or pursue a degree apprenticeship.

While the Level 4 apprenticeship wasn’t as intense as a degree apprenticeship, it equipped me with essential skills like managing campaigns, liaising with stakeholders, handling promotional content, and mastering time management. These skills proved invaluable not only for my degree apprenticeship but also for my overall professional growth.

2. The Challenges

The apprenticeship, while rewarding, came with its share of challenges. Balancing work, study, and personal life, especially during major campaigns, required adept time management. The intense workload often tested my limits, leading to moments of self-doubt and stress. Feedback from my tutor sometimes felt overwhelming, but it was essential for my development.

One key challenge was managing extensive campaigns, which occasionally demanded extra hours. Though it could be overwhelming, the additional effort often led to successful outcomes, something I would always remind myself of. The flexibility to adjust my hours and the positive reinforcement from my team, including my manager Paul, helped me stay motivated. Kaplan’s webinars on stress management and mental health provided additional support, making it easier to navigate these challenges.

3. Overcoming Obstacles

Resilience played a crucial role in overcoming obstacles. Breaking tasks into manageable chunks and setting realistic goals became essential strategies. Support from my manager Paul and colleagues like Joel was invaluable; their guidance and encouragement kept me on track. Kaplan’s resources, including stress management webinars, also proved beneficial in managing the pressures of the role.

An example of this was during a major campaign that required me to work extra hours. Although it was demanding, it ultimately contributed to the campaign’s success. The appreciation from my team and the flexibility in my schedule were small yet significant factors that helped maintain a positive mindset.

4. Achieving a Merit

Securing a distinction in my project report and End-Point Assessment (EPA) was a significant milestone. It highlighted the hard work and dedication I invested in my apprenticeship and campaigns. Before starting at Kaplan, I had minimal project management experience, and the marketing work was quite different from my previous roles. Adapting to new processes, understanding a different target audience, and managing innovative campaigns were challenging but ultimately rewarding.

For instance, applying marketing theories like the BCG Matrix in my campaigns helped me strategise effectively and understand market dynamics. By integrating my educational learnings into practical scenarios, I developed a well-rounded skill set that contributed to my success which I believe set me apart when applying for a degree apprenticeship. My familiarity with the apprenticeship format, along with my experience in time management and stakeholder collaboration, contributed significantly to my success.

Advice for Future Apprentices

1. Research and Choose Wisely

Thoroughly research apprenticeship programmes to ensure they align with your career aspirations. Look for opportunities that offer practical experience and a supportive learning environment. Check reviews and feedback to avoid workplaces that may be unsupportive or toxic. Larger companies often provide better progression opportunities and healthier management.

2. Embrace Challenges

Challenges are inevitable but should be seen as opportunities for growth. Embrace difficulties to build resilience and enhance your problem-solving skills. Facing and overcoming challenges head-on was crucial for my success, helping me navigate stakeholders, manage multiple campaigns, and balance my education.

3. Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to seek help from mentors, peers, or professional networks. Support is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals. I frequently sought advice from my manager Paul, colleague Joel, and tutor. The additional support from my apprenticeship provider was also a valuable resource.

4. Stay Organised

Effective time management is essential for balancing work, study, and personal commitments. Creating a schedule and staying organised can help manage your workload and reduce stress. Implementing organisational strategies will help you stay on top of your responsibilities and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

5. Celebrate Your Successes

Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Recognising your progress boosts motivation and keeps you focused on your goals. Sharing milestones on LinkedIn or with your network is a great way to build your professional portfolio and demonstrate your hard work.

Conclusion

My journey from a Level 4 Marketing Apprenticeship to a Level 6 UX Degree Apprenticeship was transformative. The skills and knowledge I gained during my Level 4 apprenticeship provided a solid foundation for progression within my career.

The resilience and perseverance developed throughout this journey were crucial in transitioning to and thriving in a more advanced academic and professional environment. If you’re embarking on your own career journey, remember that every step, no matter how challenging, contributes to your future success. Embrace the process, stay organised, and celebrate your milestones along the way.

 

Iqra Javid

Digital UX Degree Apprentice @ National Highways

You can find out more and connect with Iqra on LinkedIn.